The league came down harder on Strickland, doling out a six-game suspension for the reliever. Harper, the 24-year-old former MVP, received a four-game suspension for his involvement. Both players were fined by the league. MLB did not announce any other suspensions.

Strickland was not pleased about the ruling, but said he would “own it.”

Hunter Strickland on his six-game suspension: “I’m obviously not thrilled about it, but it’s their call. Whatever it is, I’ll own it.”

Bryce Harper and Hunter Strickland were punished for their role in Monday’s brawl. (AP Photo)

It’s unclear how much intent played a role in the league’s decision. It’s believed Strickland threw at Harper after the outfielder took him deep twice during the 2014 National League Division Series. The Giants went on to win that series, and took home a World Series championship a few weeks later, but Strickland was still angry about the incidents.

While Harper acted in the moment, his decision to bring his helmet to the mound and use it as a projectile likely contributed to his suspension. It’s in the league’s best interest to discourage batters from repeating that behavior. If brawls are going to be an accepted part of the game, the league would prefer they happen with beanballs and fists.

Based on this ruling, that’s unlikely to change soon. The punishments by MLB were in line with previous rulings. Neither player received a record-breaking or excessive suspension, so the league is not looking to get tough on brawls just yet.

It will likely take a more significant fight, with more extreme consequences, before the league takes the issue seriously. While both players appear to have escaped without serious injuries this time around, that may not be the case the next time another huge brawl breaks out.